So very very pretty…

I’ve been bragging about my solar panels. I suppose it’s time that I show folks what they look like. By the way, those panels are from First Solar – note the frameless design, rack mount system. Very high geek factor. Solar City worked the installation – nice job guys.

But my journey to this spot doesn’t begin with solar. The most pretty part of my strategy is the net reduction consumption that my wife and I have worked for since we moved into this house in 1999.

When we first moved in, we had single pane windows, leaky doors, uninsulated ceilings and TWO 20-gallon water heaters. After replacement and repair, we have successfully reduced energy consumption by 23% during the winter months and an astounding 33% during summer months.

The solar panels will now help me reap what I fondly call my “green hedge” on energy inflation. I believe – as many do – that energy costs are going to spike, and spike hard. It may not happen this year, it may not happen next – but it will happen. Meanwhile, my energy conservation plan now has a very pretty friend.

UPDATE: According to Solar City, as of August 2016, my solar PV system has generated more than 40,000 kWh and saved $8,000 in electrical cost. But my actual savings over eight years is really somewhere around $2,500 after all costs (including upgrades to the home and lease payments for the solar panels).

About: Ray Wyman, Jr is a content creator, communications professional, and author with more than 30 years of experience. Visit LinkedIN or Raywyman.com for more information.